The 2025 tax season is underway, and many taxpayers are wondering when they will receive their refunds. If you have already filed your tax return or are planning to do so soon, it is important to know the IRS refund schedule and the factors that can affect processing times. Here’s everything you need to know about when you can expect your refund and how to get it as quickly as possible.
IRS Refund
The time it takes to receive your IRS refund depends on how you file your return and the payment method you choose.
- If you file electronically and select direct deposit, you can expect your refund within 10 to 21 days.
- If you file a paper tax return or choose to receive a check by mail, the process can take six to eight weeks, or even longer.
- If you claim certain tax credits like the Child Tax Credit (CTC) or the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), your refund will be delayed until mid-February due to additional IRS processing requirements.
Refund Schedule
Although the exact refund dates vary, the IRS has provided an estimated schedule based on when returns are filed.
| Return Filed Between | Estimated Refund Date |
|---|---|
| January 22 – February 9 | February 16 – March 1 |
| January 29 – February 2 | February 19 – March 5 |
| Early to mid-March | March 10 – March 22 |
| Late March or later | Early April |
If you file later in the tax season, your refund may not arrive until April or beyond.
Refund Timing
Several factors can influence how quickly you receive your IRS refund.
- Filing method: E-filing with direct deposit is the fastest option. Paper returns take much longer to process.
- Errors on your return: Mistakes such as incorrect Social Security numbers, mismatched income details, or missing forms can lead to delays.
- IRS reviews and security checks: If your return is flagged for additional review, your refund may be delayed while the IRS verifies the information.
- Tax credits: Refunds with CTC or EITC claims are held until mid-February due to fraud prevention measures.
How to Check
The IRS provides a tool called “Where’s My Refund?” that allows taxpayers to track their refund status online.
To use this tool, you will need:
- Your Social Security number
- Your filing status (single, married, etc.)
- The exact amount of your expected refund
The tool updates refund status in three stages:
- Return received – The IRS has received your tax return.
- Refund approved – The IRS has processed your return and confirmed the refund amount.
- Refund sent – The IRS has issued the refund to your bank account or mailed a check.
Refund Faster
If you want to receive your IRS refund as quickly as possible, follow these tips:
- File early: The sooner you file, the sooner you’ll receive your refund.
- E-file with direct deposit: Electronic filing is faster and more secure than mailing a paper return.
- Double-check your return: Errors and missing information can delay processing. Ensure all details are correct before submitting.
- Keep all tax documents ready: Have your W-2s, 1099s, and other required documents available to avoid mistakes.
By following these steps, you can speed up your refund process and get your money without unnecessary delays.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a tax refund?
E-filed returns with direct deposit take 10-21 days, paper returns take 6-8 weeks.
What delays IRS refunds?
Errors, paper filing, tax credits, and IRS security reviews can cause delays.
Where can I check my refund status?
Use the IRS ‘Where’s My Refund?’ tool with your Social Security number and filing details.
When will refunds with EITC or CTC be issued?
These refunds are held until mid-February due to IRS verification rules.
What is the fastest way to get my refund?
E-file early and choose direct deposit to receive your refund in the shortest time.
